Venture into the world of backcountry skiing, an off-piste adventure that embraces unmarked terrain beyond traditional resorts. This type of skiing demands total awareness of the risks and your surroundings. Safety equipment and precuation must be taken. If you’re in need of a backcountry ski jacket, look for features that match the climate, terrain and your activity level.

The ideal jacket should also be easy to pack so you can take layers off as required. Most backcountry skiers prefer a shell jacket and will choose a midlayer that can be taken on or off depending on activity level; you don’t want to overheat on the way up the mountain. Some backcountry skiers prefer to skip the powder skirt in favor of bib pants for snow protection. Therefore, many of our backcountry ski jackets are lighter-weight (without a powder skirt), as they can be worn with snow-protective pants.

Backcountry ski clothing should have room for a beacon pocket and the outer layer should be backpack-compatible. Insulation, ventilation, and layering for adaptable comfort amidst changing weather conditions. Ultimately, the right backcountry jacket should contribute to an enjoyable mountain adventure.

No one spends more time in the mountains than ski patrollers in winter. Our latest Odin Backcountry collection is a reflection of their insights and feedback.

In terms of what to look for, Kaylin Richardson recommends: 

• a relaxed fit with plenty of room to layer and move;

• a wide collar with soft inner fabric that's easy to zip all the way up on cold days;

• large sleeve openings/cuffs to help you take your gloves on and off regularly to access a pack

So, what do we look for in a ski jacket? There are three main factors to take into consideration;

• Size and fit

• Warmth

• Waterproofing

Ski jackets can be unisex, but often have specific fits for men, women, or kids/juniors. Your ski jacket should fit comfortably (not too tight, nor too loose), enabling you to move freely. Trapped air is what provides warmth, so it shouldn't feel too tight. Think about what layers you're going to wear underneath. If you run cold, keep in mind that you may want space for a midlayer.

Helly tip: We recommend using our sizing chart to determine the ideal size for you.

There's nothing worse than a cold, uncomfortable day on the slopes. And this makes insulation and breathability two of the top features to look for in a ski jacket. The amount of insulation required depends on personal preferences, the temperatures on the mountain, and the kind of skiing you'll be doing. That said, breathability is vital to ensure that sweat doesn't get trapped within the jacket, leaving you feeling damp and uncomfortable. Our jackets, designed with insight from ski industry professionals, cater to your warmth needs, ensuring you stay cozy without compromise.

If you're going skiing, there's always a chance of snowfall (and potentially falling over!). Waterproof or water-resistance is a key factor of a ski jacket. You'll find a wide range of jackets on the market, but remember: not all ski jackets are waterproof.

Many of our ski wear pieces feature HELLY TECH® — a waterproof and breathable shield between you and the elements. It's constructed with a special membrane that prevents water molecules from entering from the outside while allowing sweat to escape from the inside.

Ski jackets come with a variety of features, such as:

• Pockets - handy for keeping essentials such as phones, snacks, a beacon, skins, and wallets. 
• Hoods and high collars - useful for protection from the wind and snow. Many of our ski jackets with hoods are designed to fit a helmet (around 84% of skiers and snowboarders in the U.S. wear helmets to ski or board).
• RECCO reflective technology, as mentioned above, can help rescue teams locate you in avalanches.

When browsing, it’s also a good idea to check the weight of your jacket because this can affect your comfort level. Check the sleeves and cuffs closely too. Many of our designs have adjustable cuffs to keep out cold air and snow, and accommodate different glove sizes. All these specialized features contribute to a good skiing experience, ensuring you can focus on the enjoyment of skiing.

When it comes to layering beneath your ski jacket, smart choices can enhance your comfort:

• Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that helps regulate body temperature by keeping sweat away from your skin. 

• Add an insulating mid-layer for warmth if required. This could be a fleece, sweater, or lightweight down jacket — something without too much bulk. 

• The final touch is your ski jacket, offering protection from the elements. 

This layering system helps you to stay warm and dry through changing conditions and activity levels on your skiing adventure. Be sure to remember a pair of ski pants, which should have similar attributes to your jacket.